Israel - A Year In Review

This past year has been a year of breakthrough and expansion concerning the For Zion's Sake ministry. We believe The Lord has called us to be those who support Israel and the Jewish people. During the last couple of months of 2012, I sensed The Lord encouraged me to "expand the tent pegs" of this ministry. The result is the "For Zion's Sake" blog which started in January, 2013. As a result, approximately 1,100 people have read the blog in countries all over the world. Just consider if many of our readers would also expand their tent pegs to spread these messages in support of Israel. We are humbled and are Praising The Lord with Thanksgiving.

As 2013 draws to a close, a review of key events in Israel or affecting Israel  is appropiate. Let us start by looking at those events in which we want to thank and praise our Lord God:

Israel is experiencing relative calm with few internal terrorist attacks or bombings from Gaza.

The Muslim Brotherhood was banned in Egypt.

The Egyptian government has controlled terrorism in the Sinai and closed weapon smuggling tunnels into Gaza.

Israel has sent medical relief teams to extreme weather destruction areas throughout the world.

The Jewish people continue to move to Israel or "Make Aliyah" in steady numbers.

Israel continues to be a world leader in medical technologies and other innovations.

On the other hand, the following scenarios need our continuing prayers:

The Civil War in Syria continues and at times spills over into Israel and Lebanon.

Palestinians leaders persist in proclaiming "Israel does not have a right to exist."

Iran continues to be a threat to Israel and the whole world even though Iran's President says "All this is not intended for nuclear weapons."

Judean and Samarian products are boycotted expecially in Europe.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to remain strong. He commented recently "My responsibility is to ensure the survival, security and longevity of the one and only Jewish State. In our time Biblical Prophecies are being realized. The people of Israel have come home never to be uprooted again!" Let us in 2014 also stand strong with Israel with our prayers and other avenues of support.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day, 

Frank  

"An Open Letter To John Kerry"

The title for this week's message is the same title of an editorial in the Jerusalem Post written by Erez Winner. As I read Mr. Winner's message, it became apparent this would be a perfect follow-up to our message of last week in which Kerry was proposing to place United States troops along the Jordan Valley instead of Israeli troops. This appeared to be a desperate attempt to do anything to reach an agreement with the Palestinians.

In this message we will only share the highlights of Mr. Winner's message with the suggestion that you read the whole message on jpost.com. The opening statement is "I ask that you please take these words into consideration and remember true peace can only come from a position of strength."

Erez Winner's current position is Assistant to the Chief of General Staff. He has held various senior Israeli Defense Forces positions and is currently serving in the reserves of the Israeli Army. The Winner family lives in the West Bank alongside Palestinians.

Winner goes on to say "Israel is enjoying a relatively quiet period. This is not the result of a lack of will of our enemies, but of serious and through intelligence gathering and security control of Israeli authorities. If we were to give in to your demand, the number of terror attacks would increase overnight. Each and everyone of these attempted terrorist attacks is prevented by Israel. When Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, a wave of attacks began immediately."

Mr. Winner ended his editorial with this powerful statement, "Israel has experienced endless wars and battles over the past few thousand years. The only way to create deterence is by showing one's strength which sometimes includes military operations. Before you pressure Israel to hastily sign one agreement or another, please take these words into consideration."

Psalm 29:11 says "The Lord shall grant strength to His people, The Lord shall bless His people with peace."

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

Peace Talks = Peace Deal?

There is a new development in what is wrongly referred to as the Peace Talks in Israel. I say these talks have an incorrect title for two reasons: There is no declared war in Israel and the talks now and have always been about pressuring Israel to give up its own God-given land. In reality, these talks should really be titled "Pressuring Israel To Give Up Its Land."

Well, what is this new development? John Kerry and Marine General John Allen met privately last week with Israeli leaders with a new proposal with the purpose of easing Israeli concerns of its security if Judea and Samaria becomes a Palestinian State. The new proposal is that the United States would place its military forces along the Jordan Valley protecting Israel from any enemy invasions from the East. Israel would withdraw its forces as part of this proposal.

Let us examine this further. What if a foreign country proposed to the United States that they would place their military forces along the borders with Canada and Mexico to protect the United States from its enemies? I doubt the majority of American citizens would agree to or be comfortable with such a proposal. Why should Israel be forced to even consider such a concept? It appears to me that Western powers will propose almost anything to force Israel to give up its own land.

Most importantly, we need to realize the God of Israel will never desert or forget about His Covenant People. Isaiah 43:1-3 says "But now, thus says The Lord, He who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

"A Bad Deal"

An editorial in the Jerusalem Post last Friday was entitled "You Know It Is A Bad Deal When. . ." The author was David Weinberg and he was referring to a deal reached in Geneva last week between the P5+1 group concerning Iran's nuclear enrichment program. On the surface, it appeared Iran would freeze nuclear enrichment for six months while the economic sanctions against Iran are lessened.

David Weinberg, in his editioral, goes on to say that United States government officials now confirm it is not realistic to expect Iran to agree to zero enrichment. John Kerry admits the main purpose of the deal is "to put time on the clock." Dr. Asculai of the Israeli Atomic Energy Commision says the Iran Accord "Does not do anything to change Iran's breakout time except in a very minor way."

Israeli analysts term any restrictions as almost meaningless. Iran already has more than eight tons of low-enriched uranium which is enough for four to five atom bombs. It can enrich uranium to any level within a short period of time.

How does the Word of our Lord God line up with these events? "Thus says The Lord: cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from The Lord. Blessed is the man who trusts in The Lord, and whose hope is The Lord." Jeremiah 17:5, 7. The Lord desires for us to trust in Him only! "I, The Lord, search the  heart, I test the mind, even to give everyman according to his ways." Jeremiah 17:10. Evil ways will be judged by our Lord God!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Everyday,

Frank    

Iranian Deal?

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu tells United States Secretary of State Kerry that Israel is not obligated to a proposed Western Deal with Iran. According to the proposed short term deal, Iran would freeze its nuclear activities for six months while the International Community lessens sanctions against the Iranian economy.

This response by Israel's leader came after recent meetings by the group known as P5+1. This group is composed of the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain, Germany and Iran. I have to wonder why Israel was not included in this group and its discussions since if Iran is able to become a nuclear power, Israel will be the first country in danger. The result of the first gathering of the P5+1 group was a stalemate since France declined to approve of the deal.

Netanyahu went on to comment, "I reminded Kerry of his own words that it is better not to reach a deal than to reach a bad one. The proposal being dicussed is a bad deal. Iran is not asked to dismantle even one centrifuge, but the International Community is easing sanctions on Iran for the first time in many years." By the way, the negotiations started again this week.

Many times as part of our weekly messages, we have ended the message with an exhortation to pray continually or regularly for Israel and the Jewish people. These statements are not casual words but are based on The Word of our Lord God.

Let me explain. . .Ephesians 2:6 states "And raised us up together, and made us sit together in the Heavenly places in Christ Jesus." This verse was difficult for me to understand until recently when I heard a teaching that combines Ephesians 2:6 with Hebrews 4:16 which says "Let us therefore come bodly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

This is a wonderful blessing from our Lord God when we combine these two verses. Through the shed blood of Jesus, we can at any time and place approach Jesus in the actual throne room of our God and be there continually if we make this a priority in our lives. Let us be those who are continually in the Heavenly places with Jesus on behalf of the needs in our personal lives and also Israel.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Holocaust II?

On November 9, 1938, Adolph Hitler inaugurated a brutal attack that spread across Germany and Austria. It was called Kristallnacht, or The Night of Broken Glass, for all the broken glass in the streets.

More than one thousand Synagogues were burned, the windows of Jewish businesses were smashed and shops looted, and individual Jews were rounded up and put in concentraction camps. While police helped the rioters, 400 Jews were murdered.

In reality, this night was Hitler's test to see how the West would respond. Any lack of response would set in motion Hitler's plan to destroy the Jews. Hitler had actually started his plan on a gradual basis in 1933 which would last for five years while he marginalized Jews within the German society. All the time there was very little response from the West and we now know the devastating result is known as the Holocaust.

Today, the threat of Iran has been termed by many as Holocaust II. Iran is pushing to create nuclear bombs with long-range missiles to deliver them while their leaders boast of wiping Israel off the map. At the same time, the United Nations condems Israel while there is hatred of Israel throughout Europe. 

Will the West fail this current test? News reports reveal there are talks of lifting the economic sanctions against Iran. Jewish people throughout the world have been proclaiming for many years about the Holocaust, "Never Again." All Western leaders truly need our prayers! Let us be those who stand in the gap asking our Lord God to save and protect HIS COVENANT PEOPLE AND THEIR LAND!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

The Nation Of David Lives

Our title for this week's message was the title of an editorial in the Jerusalem Post authored by Abe Novick. The author takes us back to the story of David and Goliath and how a young boy defeated, against all odds, a massive giant.

As the story goes, the Philistines were camped on a ridge overlooking the Elah Valley, while the Israelites were on an opposite ridge. The giant, Goliath, comes down to the valley and says to the Israelites "Choose you a man and let him come down to me, the loser of the battle will become slaves to the winner."

No Israelite steps forward except a young shepherd boy who refuses armor and takes with him only a sling  and five smooth stones as a weapon. Goliath mocks saying "Am I a dog that you should come to me with sticks?" What Goliath did not know was that an experienced slinger could kill or maim a target at a distance of two hundred yards.

The author compares the situation in Israel today to David in his battle as they are surrounded by very large enemy Arab countries bent on their destruction. However, Israel is empowered by technologies of modern warfare such as Stutnet, Iron Domes and Interceptor Missiles. It is the embodiment of the brave lad who outsmarted and outmaneuvered the enemy.

Most importantly, the Jews have The Lord God as their defender just as David knew he did in his battle. Psalm 2:1-3 says "Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against The Lord and against His anointed, saying, let us break their bonds in pieces and cast away their cords from us." However, our Lord God responds by saying in Psalm 2:8-9 "Ask of Me, and I will give you the nations for your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron; you shall dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." Let us be those who pray daily verses 8 and 9 into reality for the Jewish people.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

    

Jerusalem - The Holy City

As talks between Israel and the Palestinians continue, the issue of Jerusalem and who claims the Holy City, is always a main point of discussion. Israel claims Jerusalem as its holiest city which is mentioned 600 times in the Holy Bible while the Palestinians desire East Jerusalem as its capital of a proposed Palestinian State.

Well, what is the truth according to our Lord God's Word? Jerusalem was the capital of the Biblical Jewish Kingdoms and is Israel's capital today. Jews have lived in Jerusalem for the past 3,000 years and Jerusalem is the only city in the world where Jews have been the majority of the populaion. The majoritry of Israelis oppose turning the eastern half of Jerusalem over to the Palestinians since it houses the Western Wall, the Temple Mount and other historic Jewish sites.

Jerusalem is not mentioned once in the Koran. Muslims do not pray towards Jerusalem, as Jews do, and it never has served as a Muslim or an Arab capital. Jordan illegally occupied East Jerusalem from 1948 - 1967 when it destroyed 58 Synagogues, drove the Jews out, and paved roads over Jewish graves. Jews could not even go to the Western Wall. Israel regained control of East Jerusalem during the 1967 Six Day War.

What is the future of Jerusalem, again according to the Word of our Lord God? "I have chosen no city from any tribe of Israel in which to build a house. . .but I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name may be there," says our Lord God in 2Chronicles 6:5-6. Additionally, there will be a great war over Jerusalem. "For I will gather all the nations to battle against Jerusalem. . .then The Lord will go forth and fight against those nations, as He fights in the day of battle," says Zechariah 14:2-3.

As a result, Jerusalem will be the center of the universe during the millennial reign of Jesus Christ as Lord and King. Zechariah 14:16 says "And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, The Lord of Hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles." THERE IS NO QUESTION AS TO OUR LORD GOD'S PLANS FOR JERUSALEM - PRESENT AND FUTURE!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

"The Day Of The Lord"

Isaiah 2:2-3 says:"Now it shall come to pass in the latter days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it. Many people shall come and say, 'come, and let us go up to the mountain of The Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths.' For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of The Lord from Jerusalem."

These prophetic verses describe a future day when our Lord God will set up His Kingdom on the mountain of The Lord in Jerusalem. All nations shall flow to it, the word of The Lord shall go out from Jerusalem, and nation shall not lift up sword against nation. HALLELUJAH!

These are wonderful and exciting Words from our Lord of what is to happen in the future. However, between now and then there are going to be challenging days. For example, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, China, Germany and Iran last week met to discuss Iran's nuclear program. Iran at the conclusion of the talks said they were fruitful, intensive and detailed. Iran's objective is to end the sanctions against them which are crippling their economy.

The reaction from United States and Israeli leaders were not as positive. United States Treasury Secretary Jack Tew reacted by saying "We need to see real tangible evidence Iran is curbing their nuclear program, until then sanctions should stay in place." Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also said "We must remember the Iranian regime has systematically mislead the international community. Until we see actions and not just words, the pressure by the international community must continue."

These leaders of Israel and the United States should function according to Isaiah 2:5 which says "O House of Jacob, come and let us walk in the light of The Lord." This is an exortation for all of us from our Lord God but especially for our leaders in these days and times we live.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank    

"On The Palms Of My Hands"

Our message a number of weeks ago revealed how the leaders of Israel were cautioning other world leaders about the real intentions of incoming Iranian President Rouhani. The President of the World Jewish Congress, Ronald Lauder, remarked this week "Rouhani has called Israel an old wound on the body of the Islamic world for years that should be removed." He also questions the need for Peace Talks between Israelis and Palestinians. It appears Iranian leadership has not changed at all!

More disturbing news for Israel - Israeli Defense Forces Major General Kochaui shared recently that Syria is drawing thousands of global Jihadists and radical Muslims to promote the vision of an Islamic State. He went on to say "A center of global Jihadist is developing on a scale that may affect not only Syria and the borders of Israel but also Jordan and the Sinai. These Jihadists have based themselves in Southern Syria."

Isaiah 49:16 is meant to be an extreme comfort for God's people at a time like this. In this verse our Lord God says "See I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands." Bible scholars interpret this verse to mean our Lord God saying each time He looks at His hands, hundreds of times a day, He is focused on His people as they are there before Him always. He will lift them up lest they dash their feet against a stone. This is a very encouraging and comforting word from our Lord God for the residents of Israel but also for all of God's people. Lord, may this be a reality for each of us continually.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Positive Signs

"We are not Sadeh-Lowh (suckers in Persian)" Prime Minister Netanyahu said in his first ever interview with a Persian language media outlet. Netanyahu also said he would welcome diplomatic attempts to block Iran's nuclear program but not any fake efforts on Iran's part.

The BBC Persian channel is aired in Iran despite the regimes attempt to remove it from the airwaves. The channel is watched by some 12 million viewers each week. In the interview, Netanyahu addressed the Iranian people directly and claimed Iran's Ayatollahs are responsible for the severe sanctions against Iran and its dire economic situation. All are a result of Iran's efforts to acquire nuclear weapons. The Prime Minister also stressed there is a historic friendship between the Jewish and Persian nations which ended with the Islamic Revolution and can be restored if the Iranian regime is toppled.

Recent reports out of Egypt also show some promising signs. Within the last year the Egyptian Military overthrew the Muslim Brotherhood government and recently banned all Muslim Brotherhood activities. Now we hear of a new conflict brewing in the Middle East not involving Israeli troops. Egypt has made plans to attack targets in Gaza if terror attacks continue against Egyptian troops in the Sinai. These terror attacks have been traced to Hamas who control Gaza. All of this will benefit Israel if the Egyptian military is successful.

Our Lord God is on the move! Who would have thought the Prime Minister of Israel would be able to address the citizens of Iran and who would have thought the Egyptian military would have plans to attack Palestinians? In Genesis 18:14 our Lord God raises the question "Is anything too hard for The Lord?" We who know The Lord answer enphatically - NO! The above two examples are a small sampling of what our Lord God is doing around the world. Prophetic scriptures tell us of great and miraculous movements of our Lord God between now and when Jesus comes back - Zechariah 14:4. Let each of us draw closer to our Lord God than ever before and pray continually.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank    

Iranian Deceit?

A number of headlines in the Jerusalem Post this past week show something very unique and interesting. As one might observe these headlines you might come to the conclusion that Iran has turned over a new leaf and desires to be a peacemaker in the world. Gaze upon the following headlines: "Iran Set To Shut Down Nuclear Site In Deal With West; Rouhani Urges World Leaders To Engage With Iran; Iran's President In Bid To Revamp Irans Image At The United Nations."

However, another major headline states "Israel Pushes World Not To Be Deceived By Rouhani." Israel's leadership urged the world last Thursday not to be fooled by Rouhani's smiles but to intensify sanctions against Iran. They further stated the same Rouhani boasted in the past how he deceived the international community with nuclear talks even as Iran was continuing with its nuclear program.

What does the Word of our Lord God say about deceitful intentions. Proverbs 12:5 says "The thoughts of the righteous are right, but the counsels of the wicked are deceitful." Additionally, Jeremiah 17:9-10 says "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I, The Lord, search the heart, I test the mind." While Ephesians 5:6&12 says "Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret."

I pray for the leaders of Israel and the United States each day asking The Lord to help them function within His Wisdom. I now plan to also pray they not be deceived by the evil intentions of evil leaders. Will you join me?

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

Israel's Twenty Year Nightmare

My title was one of the headlines in the opinion section of the Jerusalem Post dated September 13, 2013 which was also the eve of Yom Kippur. The author was Caroline Glick who is one of their feature writers. The following are the highlights from this truthful and thought provoking article.

September 13, 2013 was also the 20 year anniversary of the start of Israeli's so-called Peace Process with the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Approximately one year later the PLO organized a massive terror offensive against Israel. The decision by Israeli's leadership to enter into this Peace Process with a terrorist organization has turned out to be a terrible mistake resulting in 1,500 Israeli lives lost plus large numbers of injuries.

The obsessive desire to elimate the Jewish people and the Jewish State is the reason there has been no peace between Israel and its neighbors. This hatred is irrational and all-encompassing. The Israeli public prior to the start of the Peace Process foresaw a nightmare and opposed it. More than two million Israelis opposed the Oslo Accords and what followed. This was the largest protest movement in Israeli history. Decorated military leaders warned that the PLO was a terrorist organization and had no intention of making peace with Israel. They warned that Yassar Arafat was a liar and a murderer.

History has shown all these warnings to be true. Israeli leadership made a terrible mistake! Currently, the United States government is trying to make key decisions concerning Syria while the majority of our citizens oppose any involvement. As a result, let us be those who pray on a regular basis for our leaders and for all leaders in the Middle East especially in Israel.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

   

A Word Of Encouragement

I sense a word of encouragement based on our God's word is in order this week for all of us. As we observe the extremely tenuous situations in Syria and Egypt, we can all easily become concerned and uneasy. When I refer to "all of us" this obviously includes residents of Israel but also includes all caring people around the world. Syria and Egypt currently are battleground countries involved in bitter civil wars, which depending on the outcome could have a devastating effect on the world economy.

How should we all react when we experience discouragement and challenging times? We can spend greatly expanded times in prayer; or we can sit at the feet of Jesus quietly and listen; or we can turn to our God's Word or all of the above. Isaiah 54 is called "The Messiah's Promise of Israel's Restoration." Verse 17 says to Israel but also to all believers "No weapon formed against you shall prosper" while Isaiah 55:11 says when we turn to God's Word "So shall My Word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to me void."

Additionally, Isaiah 55:9 says "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than yours, and My thoughts than your thoughts." We serve a powerful, loving, controling and orderly God who will always accomplish "His ways." I always love to share the following example of our God's order and control of all things in heaven and earth. Exactly 50 days after leaving Egypt, the Israelites received God's guidelines on how to live their lives at Mt. Sinai. However, a large portion of them in the process turned to idol worship and 3,000 perished. Also, exactly 50 days after Jesus was resurrected, Pentacost took place and after Peter's message 3,000 were saved. Is this a coincedence, I don't think so. Praise The Lord!

Discouragement and uneasness are not of our God. Let us be those who continually turn to our God and His Word during these difficult times to receive His encouragement and also be those who "Let our light shine" each and every day Luke 1:79.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Pray For Leaders

Our vitally important message for this week is to persevere in prayers for the leaders in the United States and Israel regarding the volatile situation in Syria. However, we need to look at the truth of what is really happening in Syria.

Syria is experiencing a civil war with a number of factions wanting to be in control. The Assad government, which has murdered 100,000 of its own people over 30 months, is backed by Iran and Hezbollah. Those trying to overthrow this government are referred to as rebels and are backed by Al-Qaida. However, this conflict is affecting almost the whole Middle East. Saudi Arabia's military is on high alert, Jordan has United States troops on its borders, Iraq and Lebanon feel threatened.

Complicating the picture even further, the United States is considering getting militarily involved. President Obama until this past weekend was ready for United States involvement but now wants input from Congress. Only 20% of the United States citizens feel this is appropriate. What is the motivation for the United States government to even consider getting involved? After all, our military does not have a very good record when getting involved in civil wars - Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, etc.

Last, but certainly not least, how is all this affecting Israel? Iran and Syria have threatened to attack Israel if Syria is attacked by the United States. Israeli Defense Forces are on high alert, 60% of Israelis have gas masks, and school children can purchase unique back packs that will convert to a miniature shelter during an attack. Iron Domes are in Haifa, Netanya and also Tel Aviv. Israeli Defense Minister Ya'Alon recently said "Our eyes are on developments in the north."

Yes, we need to pray feverently for the leaders especially in the United States so they will react to Godly Wisdom concerning how to react to the situation in Syria. However, let us also pray for those living in Israel that they will turn to God's Word for comfort. Isaiah 51 provides much comfort to God's people in Israel when it says in verses 12 and 22 the following: "I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid. . .thus says your Lord, The Lord and your God. . .see, I have taken out of your hand the cup of trembling, the dregs of the cup of my fury; you shall no longer drink it. But I will put it into the hand of those who afflict you."

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank 

Our Lord God Responds

Within the last few weeks, we have heard continuous reports of the out of control scenarios in Syria and Egypt. The latest reports from Syria indicate the Assad government has for sure used chemical weapons on its own people. Additionally, the Egyptian army has shot and killed hundreds of supporters of the overthrown Morsi government.

As we attempt to ascertain prophetically the events in these two countries, Psalm 83 comes to mind. Verse four of Psalm 83 describes the enemy countries surrounding Israel as saying "Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more." Bible scholars studying this verse have felt that Israel would be invaded by these and other surrounding enemy countries, this still might be the case.

However, recently I read a commentary which brings a different interpretation because of the total chaos in Syria and Egypt. Verses 9, 13, and 16 are prayers asking God to deal with these countries - "Deal with them. . .O my God, make them like the whirling dust, like the chaff before the wind. . .fill their faces with shame, that they may seek Your name, O Lord." Could what is happening in Syria and Egypt be answers by our Lord God to these prayers and, if so, they would be incapable of invading Israel at this time? Praise The Lord! 

We also need to be in earnest prayer for leaders in the United States and Israel. News reports this week reveal United States leaders are considering military intervention in Syria. This is a great concern in Israel because of reports that Syria backed by Iran would retaliate against Israel if the United States becomes militarily involved in Syria.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day and Each Day,

Frank   

What Does The Lord Require?

I recently read an article with this same title in the Dispatch From Jerusalem magazine. This article deeply touched me and I will share it with you but first let's look at the full verse from God's Word. "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does The Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8.

The story. . .Irena Sendler was a young Polish nurse who worked in Nazi occupied Warsaw and risked her life to save 2,500 Jewish children from being deported to the concentration camps. In October 1940, almost 500,000 Jewish residents of Warsaw were imprisoned inside the walls of the Warsaw ghetto. Her position with the Warsaw social services allowed her access into the ghetto to give medical care to the people. She convinced Jewish parents that their children were in grave danger, and their only hope would be for her to secretly take their children out of harm's way.

Many parents allowed Irena to carry their sedated children out of the ghetto, concealed in sacks, supply boxes, trash bins, and even coffins. The tiniest ones were hidden in toolboxes. Outside the ghetto, she provided the children with false documents and hiding places.

Irena is an extraordinary example for all of us especially for those who love and support the Jewish people. Last year there was a 30% rise in Anti-Semitism world wide. As I read this story, I wondered if I am willing to act justly and show mercy not only to the Jewish people but to all mankind? I believe this is an appropriate question for all of us.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank



God Is Our Refuge And Strength

Our title for the message this week is from verse 1 of Psalm 46 in which  verse 6 says  "The nations raged." This certainly could be a description of the world in which we live and especially about the nations surrounding Israel.

Almost daily we hear of the extremely unstable conditions in Syria which is on the Northern border of Israel. Likewise on the Southern border is a similar unstable scenario in Egypt. Last Thursday, Israel closed an airport at Eilat on the Red Sea reacting to threats of rockets to be fired at the resort town. The next day five militants were killed and a rocket launcher destroyed resulting from what is believed to be an Israeli Drone attack.

Yes, we could say that Syria and Egypt are raging as Psalm 46 predicts. How should we as God's people and especially those living in Israel react to all this? We should turn to God's word in general and to Psalm 46 in particular for peace and comfort. Notice the following words of strength and comfort in Psalm 46: Verse 1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble; Verse 2 Therefore we will not fear; Verse 7 The Lord of hosts is with us, The God of Jacob is our refuge; Verse 10 Be still, and know that I am God, I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"

Lord, we pray Your Words of peace and comfort in Psalm 46 and similar words in Your Holy Book will be real to the people of Israel each and every day and they also will remember how you have lifted them out of trouble and difficulty numerous times in the past and will do it now and in the future according to Your Word, AMEN!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

Obedience To The Lord God

The Israelis and the Palestinians are once again meeting eye to eye to try and resolve the supposed "land issue" in the Middle East. Similar talks over many years have started and stopped with little or no results. Those of us who love and know The One True God have been encouraged to pray for the participants. So this raises the question of how to pray most effectively?

The true and living Word of God is our best guide regarding how we should pray. It has been said that the Word of God contains the answers to all of life's challenges. Through His Word we learn how God responded to the actions of His people in the past but also to the prayers of His people.

For example, let us look at Abraham who was called "A friend of God" because of his obedience to God. The Lord said to Abram in Genesis 12:1 "Get out of your country. . .to a land I will show you." Abraham obeyed even though he had no idea where God wanted him and his family to go. Also, in Genesis 22 The Lord spoke to Abraham telling him to offer Isaac as a burnt offering on Mt. Moriah. The Abrahamic Covenant was to be continued through Isaac and Jacob and their descendants. Abraham again obeyed God and at the last moment God provided a ram as the sacrifice. God responded in verse 18 "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice."

Contrarily, in Isaiah 48:17-18 The Lord proclaims to Judah the benefits of obeying Him and possibly even avoiding exile in Babylon "Thus says The Lord, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel; I am The Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you by the way you should go. Oh, that you had heeded my commandants! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea." They disobeyed with resulting consequences.

Obey God or not - this is the real issue concerning the new talks. Will the leaders who serve The One True God seek His counsel and then obey? We can be those who pray on a regular basis bringing about their obedience to their God.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Doing What Is Right!

This week we have heard that Israelis and Palestinians have started to meet in order to establish parameters necessary prior to officially restarting the Peace Talks. In reality, the term Peace Talks is inaccurate. The name of the talks, if they happen, should have something to do with how much land does Israel have to surrender? This is always the criteria which is totally contrary to the will of The Lord God, Genesis 15:18. The land was given to Abraham and his descendants!

This battle over the land has been going on for a very long time. Toward the end of World War II, the question arose as to what is to happen to the Jews in Europe who have survived the Holocaust? At about the same time, for the first time officially, the Biltmore Declaration stated "Palestine should be established as a Jewish Commonwealth."

Additionally, President Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and Josef Stalin in 1945 participated in the Yalta Conference to discuss land allocations after World War II ended. The Jewish Refugee problem was never discussed. As a result, President Roosevelt met with Saudi Monarch Ibn Saud in Egypt after Yalta. Saud's response to the plight of the Jews was "Arabs and Jews could never cooperate, neither in Palestine or any other country. Arabs would rather die."

Shortly after Yalta President Roosevelt passed away and Harry Truman became President. How would Truman handle the Jewish Refugee problem? Secretary of State Marshall felt the United States should not support the establishment of Israel as a Jewish nation. Truman had to make a difficult decision.

Israel was founded as a nation on May 14, 1948 with Truman's endorsement. What caused Truman's approval? He was raised a Baptist and studied the Old Testament and often quoted from Deuteronomy. In this book of the Bible The Lord God said to Abraham's descendants "Behold I have given up the land before you. Go in and take possession of the land." President Truman based his decision on The Word of God. He did What Was Right according to The Word of God. 

Let us all pray for today's leaders that they also will do what is right regarding the land issue in Israel!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank       

Chosen, Persecuted, A Blessing

Genesis 12:2-3 "I will bless you. . .and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

Possibly you find the title for this week's message interesting and curious. At the same time I am sure you know who these above descriptive words are describing - the Jewish people. The above referenced verses of God's Word clearly points out that Abraham and his descendants through Isaac and Jacob will be blessed but also will be a blessing to the world. They are "Chosen of God."

However, along with being "Chosen" has come a lifetime of persecution. Their history reveals 400 years of bondage in Egypt; 70 similar years in Babylon; Pogroms in Russia and Spain; the Holocaust; tyrannical powers controlling their land; and currently continual attacks by surrounding enemy countries.

The news reports this week reveal the possibility of Peace Talks starting again. Is this another form of persecution? I believe so! There have been many other peace talks that have taken place over the years with such titles as Madrid, Oslo, Camp David, The Road Map but nothing changes. What is the problem? In 2003, Zola Levitt stated "The answer to peace in Israel is simply for the Palestinians to stop killing Israelis. That is all that is needed. If tomorrow morning there were no Palestinians trying to kill Israelis, Israel would have no need to retaliate or arrest anyone." This is the Truth!

How have the Jewish people responded to being chosen, persecuted, and called to be a blessing? The Jewish people are a blessing beyond proportion relative to how few their people are in number. For example, although only 0.2% of the world's population, between 1901 and 2010 Jews won 27% of Nobel Prizes for Medicine, 25% for Physics and 42% for Economics.

God's Chosen People are an example of through much persecution they have learned to Trust In The Lord. We should pray daily for them as it appears new persecutions could be starting.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank    

A History Lesson

I would think that all those who have an interest in the events of the Middle East would agree their ultimate goal is for peace. United States Secretary of State John Kerry has been working towards establishing new peace talks without success. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is ready to participate immediately but without pre-conditions to the peace talks from the Palestinians.

As a result, there are barriers preventing even talking about peace but even bigger barriers to actually establishing peace. Many Israelis question whether their enemies have moved past their desire to eliminate the Jews and Israel. An Arab produced film currently in production will commemorate the extinction of an entire Jewish community, Khaibar. Chants of "Remember Khaibar" is chanted by Arabs across the Middle East. This does not sound like an attitude of working toward peace.

Also, a history lesson seems very appropriate for those chanting and others like them. Ezekiel 35 is titled "The Judgement of Edom." Approximately 2,500 years ago Edom housed millions of people located just southeast of the Dead Sea. Today, only a few people live there and it is totally desolate. What happened? Ezekiel 35:5,7,9 illustrates the following: "Because you had an ancient hatred and have shed the blood of the children of Israel by the power of the sword. . .thus I will make Mt. Seir {Edom} most desolate . . .I will make you perpetually desolate and your cities shall be uninhabited; then you shall know that I am The Lord." 

The story of the Edomites illustrates the truth and the power of the Word of God! Let us pray continually for God's Will and Purposes according to His Word will control events in the Middle East.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Egypt "In That Day"

News headlines during the last week have informed us that the Muslim Brotherhood government in Egypt headed by Prime Minister Morsi has been overthrown by the Egyptian Army. A large portion of the citizens of Egypt through a poll taken indicated that 73% believed that the Morsi government was not capable of improving a very weak economy. Additionally, 22 million of these same citizens signed a petition to remove the Morsi government. An interim Prime Minister has been put in place who has promised a democratic election for a new government within six months.

How do these events in Egypt line up prophetically with the Word of God? Isaiah 19:18-25 address the spiritual condition of Egypt "In That Day" which most Bible scholars believe is when Jesus physically comes back to earth. Notice what is happening in Egypt "In That Day" in Isaiah 19:

"In That Day five cities in the land of Egypt will speak the language of Canaan and swear by the Lord of Hosts." vs. 18

"In That Day there will be an altar to The Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt." vs. 19

"In That Day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria and the Assyrian will come into Egypt and the Egyptian into Assyria." vs. 23

"In That Day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria, even a blessing in the midst of the land, whom The Lord of Host shall bless." vs. 24 & 25

Could these events this past week in Egypt bring us closer to the return of Jesus to earth when Egypt will be worshipping The Lord our God with Israel and Assyria? Obviously, Israel is observing these events in Egypt very carefully especially in regard to the nomenclature of the next government since they still are observing a peace treaty with Egypt. We who love and support Israel need to pray earnstly concerning all these events.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank  

Celebration

Today is Independence Day when the citizens of the United States celebrate the anniversary of the founding of our nation with fireworks and gatherings of friends and family. Hopefully, some are giving thanks for our founding fathers who with the help of our Heavenly Father birthed this nation on Judeo-Christian values.

However, as we reflect on the current spiritual and moral climate of our country we find a far different picture than of the original founding principles. Abortions are being performed each and every day, fifty percent of marriages fail, our government is deeply in debt and even the Biblical definition of marriage is under attack. We are in great need of a Spiritual Revival!

Our Heavenly Father gives us clear instructions in IIChronicles 7:14 about our part before "He will heal our land." We are to "Humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways." Additionally, our Lord desires for us to bless Israel and then He will bless us and our nation. Genesis 12:3 says "I will bless those who bless you."

The last significant wave of salvation and faith expansion took place in the United States in the late 1960's and early 1970's. This movement of God was called "The Jesus Movement" and thousands of young adults and hippies became believers in Jesus. No doubt this movement of God was birthed on large numbers of people adhering to IIChronicles 7:14 and on blessing Israel.

I truly believe prayers for Israel were an important part of this movement of God because at the same time Israel was fighting the Six Day War of 1967 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Believers and agnostics have testified to the awesome presence of angelic hosts during these conflicts. God's mercy caused Israel's triumphs.

Would we who love our country and Israel recommit ourselves this special day of remembrance to be in a spirit of humility and repentance for our country and pray continually and boldly for a spiritual revival movement of our God for the United States and Israel?

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank

A Blessing To All The World

When the Lord God established His binding and everlasting covenant with the Jewish people in Genesis 12:2-3 He said "I will make you a great nation (Israel), I will bless you, and you shall be a blessing. . .and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." This is the truth from God's word totally contrary to words of Israel's enemies such as Iran Clerics who say, "The Jews are filthy people who spread diseases and Israel is a cancerous tumor that must be removed from the Middle East."

Israel just celebrated her 65th birthday and the following is a partial list from an article about this birthday event showing how Israel and the Jewish people have indeed been a blessing to the world:

{1} Israel set up the most advanced field hospital in Haiti with 240 medical workers after an earthquake.

{2} Established a field hospital and aid to Japan after an earthquake in March, 2011.

{3} Vital heart operations at an Israeli hospital for 3,000 children of the developing world including 1,500 Palestinian children.

{4} Established a water purification system that delivers safe drinking water from almost any source.

{5} Developed an artificial desert oasis that helps feed millions of desert dwellers.

{6} Free cataract removal operations by Israeli eye doctors in Vietnam, China,  Myanmar and even Muslim countries.

{7} Developed a phone imaging system to diagnose and monitor malaria.

{8} A field hospital along Israeli's border with Syria to treat wounded Syrians.

{9} Solar-powered light fixtures on African and South American roads.

{10} Israel provides yearly trauma care training courses in Africa, South America and the Far East.

Again, this is a partial list of how Israel and the Jewish people have been a blessing to the world as the Word of God proclaimed in Genesis 12:2-3. We who love and support Israel need to be those who regularly proclaim these truths and encourage others to do likewise.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Non-Military Threats To Israel

Almost everyday in the news we hear of military threats to destroy Israel from countries on its borders and those close by such as Iran. Additionally, there is always threats from terror groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. In fact, Psalm 83 describes the enemies of Israel saying in verse 4 "They have said, come and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more."

Now we learn there are additional threats to Israel which we could call or title "non-military threats." For example, the Council of Europe consisting of 47 countries to oversee The European Court of Human Rights just met and brought forth a motion. This motion exclaimed that Israel must stop any new or existing construction in the settlements of Judea and Samaria.

Maybe I am missing something here but what gives this Council the right to demand Israel stop construction on its own God-given land? Genesis 15:18. Israel's government reacted in a similar manner. Deputy Defense Minister Danon responded at an awards ceremony "I will not institute a construction freeze."

Another non-military threat to Israel is referred to as Cyber attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said recently "Iran has recently increased Cyber attacks on Israel to also include attacks through their proxies Hamas and Hezbollah. These attacks are against our infrastructure but also against economic and civilian targets." 

We need to expand our prayers for Israel to ask God's hand of protection over these additional unique attacks. Psalm 91:1, 2, and 11 state "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of The Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust. For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank 

Middle East Unrest

Approximately one year ago we were hearing many reports about what was termed the Arab Spring. This term described violent rioting in the streets of many of the capital cities in the Middle East. The result was the governments in Egypt and Libya were overthrown with the resulting new governments controlled by the terror group Muslim Brotherhood.

The current situation in parts of the Middle East could be called the new Arab Spring or Arab Spring II. The blog of last week informed us of the turbulent situation in Syria and now we hear of violence in the streets of Turkey between police and demonstrators.

Could these scenarios in Syria and Turkey plus the fact that Lebanon is already under control of the terror group Hezbullah be setting the stage for the Battle of Gog and Magog as described in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39? In Ezekiel 38:14-16 The Lord God is speaking to Gog {leader of Russia} to come from your place in the North with a mighty army and come against My people Israel. This mighty army will consist of forces from Turkey, Iran and Libya as mentioned in the early verses of Ezekiel.

However, The Lord God wins a mighty victory for Israel. Ezekiel 38:21-23, The Lord God says "I will call for a sword against Gog. . . .I will bring him to pestilence and bloodshed. . . .then they shall know that I am The Lord." Why is the unrest in Syria and Turkey possibly setting the stage for the Battle of Gog and Magog? These countries are in the direct path of the "Invasion From The North" which this battle is commonly called. The current unrest seems to open the door for this invasion.

How do we pray regarding all of this since we know the Battle of Gog and Magog is in the future according to The Word of God? We need to pray boldly for Godly wisdom for the leaders of Israel and for God's hand of protection for those who live in Israel!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day In His Care,

Frank

Ominous Signs

A number of events have made new headlines during the past week all raising concerns for those charged with the defense of Israel. Two of the events revolve around happenings during the Syrian Civil War while the third event resulted from an announcement by the United States government.

The civil war in Syria has raged continually for over a year with "rebel forces" attempting to overthrow the Assad government. The rebel forces appear to include elements of enemies of Israel. Approximately 80,000 opponents of the government have been killed and now there appears to be strong evidence the government is using chemical weapons. An enemy of Israel on its border using such tactics is an ominous sign for Israel.

Additionally, Israeli Air Force General Eshel has stated that a surprise war can come about through many scenarios as the Syrian conflict can escalate very quickly. He also announced the Assad government has invested billions of dollars in buying the best weapon systems Russia can offer. Eshel also said this gives Assad greater belligerence. Another ominous sign for Israel.

Last Thursday President Obama announced the United States will limit the use of Drone strikes against extremists abroad. He stated there will only be drone strikes when a threat is imminent and it is almost certain civilians will not be affected. Reaction in Israel is they now feel alone in fighting terror. Another ominous sign for Israel.

History reveals Israel's God has helped them win many wars against overwhelming odds and we now petition Him, who is Master and King over all, to again be there for them.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Every Day,

Frank 

It Is All About The Land Again - Part 2

Our message last week informed us that the newly installed United States Secretary of State Kerry has announced he is working towards restarting peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. Every previous attempt to establish supposed peace through dividing the land of Israel has failed. Why is this? Every attempt ignored the Word of God! Joel 3:2 says The Lord will judge those who have divided HIS LAND. Also in Amos 9:15 our God says He will no longer uproot His people from the land He has given them.

Once again world leaders are attempting to divide God's land given to His original covenant people, the Jews. Kerry had originally planned to reveal his proposal for peace in the Middle East May 23rd but now has pushed this date back to June 7th. In addition, Kerry has been meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders and has met with the Quartet which includes representatives from the United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia. 

This all sounds good in the world media. However, how does our God react to even the suggestion of dividing up HIS LAND or the actual act itself. A number of years ago, Israeli Prime Minister Sharon caused thousands of Israelis to evacuate the Gaza Strip leaving behind their homes, their businesses and their farms all in a failed attempt to establish peace in the Middle East. Shortly thereafter, Sharon became gravely ill and has never recovered. History also reveals severe weather events while talks of dividing HIS LAND are in process. Are these just coincidences or realities?

Our God is a loving and caring God but also a God who keeps the promises in His word! We need to pray continually for leaders in the United States and Israel resulting in them seeking God's wisdom at all times and in all situations.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day An Each Day,

Frank    

It Is All About The Land, Again

Recently, a new United States Secretary of State was installed. Secretary Kerry visited with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu shortly after his installation which was customary, appropriate, and important. Also, very interesting but not surprising, was the announcement by Kerry that he would like to see the "Peace Talks" resume.

Yes, it is all about the land again! It seems good and appropriate then to look again at the "Land Issue." However, we will look at it from the only accurate viewpoint - THE WORD OF GOD.

The basis for determining who the land belongs to is the Abrahamic Covenant discussed in Genesis 12, 13, 15, 17. A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties meaning the promises made must be kept. This is nothing new since we know our God keeps all His promises - Hallelujah.

Well, what did God promise to Abraham and his descendants concerning the land? Genesis 17:8 reveals our Lord saying to Abraham "Also I give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession; and I will be their God." Notice God said I give you all the land of Canaan.

Biblical maps during the time of Abraham show Canaan included all the land from the Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan River and well into present day Jordan. Obviously, this included Judea and Samaria which is the land of dispute politically called the West Bank. God gave all of Canaan to Abraham and his descendants through Isaac, Genesis 17:19. Also, God confirmed this convenant when He said to Jacob in Genesis 28:13 "And behold, The Lord stood above it and said: I am The Lord God of Abraham your Father and The God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I give to you and your descendants."

What can be our part before and during peace talks if they start once again? Obviously, we need to pray earnestly but in our prayers remind our gracious and powerful God of His promises to the Jewish people.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank

  

An Opportunity To Help

News headlines during the last week have revealed the Israeli Air Force has struck and destroyed two shipments of weapons in Syria destined for Hezbollah in Lebanon. Hezbollah is a terrorist organization in Southern Lebanon bent on attacking and destroying Israel. As a result, Israeli Defense Forces have stationed tanks and anti-missile batteries along the Northern Israeli and Syria border preparing for any possible counter attack by Syria.

Situations like these of war preparations and alerts are almost a continual status for the Israel Defense Forces. Since the founding of the State of Israel in 1948, they have fought numerous wars miraculously protected by the hand of God each time. Adding to the challenge of protecting its residents in wars, the Israel Defense Forces continually have to deal with the threats of terror attacks and entifadas.

We need to also realize that almost every young Israeli, male and female, after graduating from high school must serve in the Israeli Defense Forces. Even after completing the required time, men must serve in the Reserves for an additional twenty years. Protecting Israel has come at a cost of 23,000 lives and with 100,000 disabled from wounds received.

How can we who love Israel help the Israeli Defense Forces? First, we can pray for God's daily protection and for His wisdom for their leaders. Secondly, we can provide financial support for the Israeli Defense Forces through an organization called Bridges For Peace. Starting military salaries are very low at $105.00 per month. Military families assist as they are capable but more than 5,000 soldiers have no family or are from needy families.

Isaiah 40:1 says "Comfort yes, comfort My people says your God." In addition to praying, if you are interested in supporting the Israel Defense Forces or other programs of support for Israel, log onto WWW.bridgesforpeace.com and click on "Blessing Israel." I personally have been supporting Bridges For Peace for twenty years.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Every Day,

Frank

"The Spirit Of The Lord Is Upon Me"

These are challenging days for God's original covenant people whether they live in Israel or throughout other parts of the world. Anti-Semitism is at its highest level in history. The last couple of weeks this blog has documented  the threat of a nuclear Iran as it becomes more ominous each passing day.

The last couple of days headlines reveal suspicions that the Syrian government has used chemical weapons to suppress the rebels trying to overthrow the government. Think for a minute of the threat to Israel of chemical weapons in the hands of Hezbollah as they are closely associated with the Syrian government. Additionally, a drone was shot down last Thursday off the coast of Northern Israel believed to have been launched by Hezbollah.

The enemies surrounding Israel continue their measures to destroy them from being a nation. How should God's people react to all this? They should turn to their Lord in prayer and to His word for peace and comfort. We can help them by praying God's word into effect for them.

The Old Testament has over 300 prophecies about the Advent Of Christ, their Messiah, and the word salvation appears 26 times in the book of Isaiah. Isaiah 61:1-3 says about the Advent of The Messiah "The Spirit of The Lord is upon me, Because The Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of The Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To comfort those who mourn in Zion."

These are the kinds of words of comfort God's original covenant people need to hear not only for their peace but to reveal Jesus as their Messiah. Let us be about praying all this into fruition for them.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank 

Israel Can Attack Iran By Itself

Last week's message revealed how the Israeli leadership is expressing that they must maintain a strong defensive posture as Iran continues to develop nuclear capability. This week the rhetoric has become even more intense to include the United States government.

As Israel celebrated its 65th Independence Day, the Israeli government stated they have the ability to attack Iran's nuclear sites even without help from other governments. At the same time, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee passed a resolution stipulating that the United States will assist Israel diplomatically, economically, and militarily if Israel is forced to attack Iran. It is expected to also be adopted by the Senate.

Has some event happened to elicit these bold statements? Yes, the United States Defense Intelligence Agency now believes North Korea may be able to miniaturize its nuclear warheads and fit them on ballistic missiles, meaning if this is true, Iran will also soon have the same capability. Israeli leaders are monitoring developments in North Korea very closely.

The leaders in Israel and the United States need God's wisdom desperately. Proverbs 2:1-5 says "My Son, if you receive My words, and treasure My commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of The Lord and find the knowledge of God." We should be led to pray this word of God into effect for the leaders of Israel and the United States daily.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care,

Frank

"A Strong Defensive Force"

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke at the ceremony to honor Israel's fallen soldiers earlier this week during Remembrance Day and said "We have been forced as a nation to fight for our right to exist. Since our formation we had to fight for our freedom. Haters prosecuted us in each generation, harmed us and sought to erase Israel off the face of the earth. But throughout the generations we learned that only a strong defensive force can ensure we will not be harmed." 

Netanyahu shared how Israel has had to defend itself through many wars in its history and needs today a strong defensive force. We hear almost every day of rockets fired into Southern Israel from Hamas in Gaza. The conflict in Syria has overflowed into the Golan Heights with stray gunfire and rockets. Since the beginning of 2013, Palestinians have thrown 1,195 rocks at Israelis in Judea and Samaria actually killing a baby and his father. This week missiles were fired into Eilat, a tourist town on the Dead Sea, from Egypt.

However, the biggest threat is from Iran as it draws ever closer to nuclear capability. Iran is working with North Korea in developing nuclear warheads and ballistic missiles and North Korea just threatened the United States. These new events could possibly accelerate an attack on Iran by Israel to slow down its nuclear planning dramatically.

Psalm 83 seems to address Israel's current scenario showing Israel threatened by almost every surrounding country. Verse 4 quotes the enemies of Israel saying "Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more." Certainly sounds like the day and times Israel is experiencing. However, verses 13 - 18 are a prayer asking our God to intervene and defeat Israel's enemies so that "His name will be most high over all the earth." Let us be about praying these kinds of prayers for Israel!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank

Ezekiel 36 - One More Time

The last couple of weeks we have studied together Ezekiel 36 and have learned about the Mountains of Israel or Judea and Samaria - past, present and future. However, to receive a complete picture of this very prophetic book, I sense it would be good to finish our study by looking at the last nine verses.

We have learned the nations around Judea and Samaria have made it desolate but our God is judging them; He is bringing His people back to His land; and He will cleanse them and give them a new heart and put a new spirit within them.

Today's message shows our Lord is doing miracles to the physical land of Judea and Samaria itself. Remember there was a time when the land was considered desolate. Verses 29, 30, 35 and 36 illustrate:

{29} "I will deliver you from all your uncleanesses. I will call for the grain and multiply it, and bring no famine upon you."

{30} "And I will multiply the fruit of your trees and the increase of your fields, so that you need never again bare the reproach of famine among the nations."

{35} "So they will say, this land that was desolate has become like the Garden of Eden; and the wasted, desolate, and ruined cities are now fortified and inhabited."

{36} "I, The Lord, have spoken it, and I will do it."

Has The Lord fulfilled His word? Absolutely! Recent reports from Israel reveal that because of Jewish immigration the Jewish majority in Judea and Samaria will be 80% in the near future. Israel's economy is growing at 14.7%. Just this week, Israel started pumping natural gas into Israel proper from a very large find in the Mediterranean Sea. Israel ranks 20th out of 80 countries in a survey of "Best Countries In Which To Be Born." 

Be encouraged in your support of Israel and its people in thought, word, and deed. They need it desperately and you will be blessed. May The Lord bless you and keep you this day and each day.

Blessings,

Frank

A Prophecy To The Mountains Of Israel

I would think the title of our message this week has aroused your curiosity since it is a prophecy not only to the people of Israel but to the mountains. Ezekiel 36 is a very prophetic book in which our God is bringing a very encouraging word to the Mountains of Israel in verses 1-15.

Last week's message identify the Mountains of Israel as Biblical Judea and Samaria and not the West Bank. Ezekiel 36:1-7 illustrates this land in the past had "borne the shame of the nations" but now God in "His jealousy and fury will cause these nations to bear their own shame" because of their treatment of the Mountains of Israel.

Our Lord continues His uplifting message to the Mountains of Israel in verses 8-17 proclaiming "My people Israel are about to come." The Jewish people are coming back from all over the world to inhabit their land. Our Lord continues "I am for you and will do better for you and then you will know I am The Lord." The Jewish people have been coming back to Israel for many, many years.

Ezekiel 36:24-28 also brings forth from our Lord a very positive message for the people of Israel. He says upon their return He will "Cleanse them from all filthiness; give them a new heart; and put a new spirit within them; and He will be their God." As part of their return, they will come to salvation through Jesus Christ as their Messiah. Hallelujah!

Maundy Thursday is remembered as when Jesus communed with His Disciples just before going to the cross. The Disciples were surprised when Jesus washed their feet during their time together. Philippians 2:7 says "Jesus took the form of a servant." My prayer for each of us as we approach Resurrection Sunday is we will have a similar servant's heart towards the Jewish people and everyone.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You Now And Forever,

Frank